As part of the 15th Annual Absa ESD Expo, the Smart Supplier Conference brought together entrepreneurs, procurement leaders, funding experts and business support partners
under the theme “The Spiral of Impact: The People. The Platform. The Purpose.” The conference created a space for meaningful engagement focused on SME growth, supplier development and business sustainability.
Through entrepreneur success stories, expert panel discussions and practical insights from procurement and funding specialists, delegates gained valuable perspectives on growth, resilience and business readiness. Representatives from Absa, Telkom, African Bank and Sun International shared first-hand guidance on becoming a preferred supplier and building long-term business partnerships.
Sessions covered supplier development, digital transformation, funding access, tender opportunities and strategic relationship building. Combined with networking opportunities, the Helpdesk initiative and Supplier MatchUp Sessions, the conference equipped delegates with practical knowledge, valuable connections and renewed confidence to grow their businesses.
Programme
SMART SUPPLIER CONFERENCE
- TUESDAY, 15 SEPTEMBER 2026
Registration & Networking
Opening | Mzanzi Youth Choir
Welcome from MC
CEO / Procurement Expert, ROI Group
Key Note Address – Absa
Executive - SME Regions: Gauteng North & Limpopo, Absa
Supplier Voices: Turning Challenges into Growth
A powerful panel where business leaders share how they turned obstacles into opportunities. Expect real stories of resilience, leadership, and growth. This session offers inspiration and practical advice for fellow SMMEs.
Founder, Small Business Helpdesk
Founder & CEO, Flory’s Health and Skincare
Director, All Day Jam
Managing Director, Andani Ash Suppliers
Co-Founder, ejoobi
Digital Transformation for SMMEs: Leveraging e‑procurement platforms, AI tools, and digital marketing to scale.
This session explores how small businesses can harness digital solutions to drive growth. From e‑procurement platforms to AI‑powered tools and smart marketing strategies, experts share practical ways for SMMEs to embrace technology, streamline operations, and expand their reach.
Regional Vice President, Sub Saharan Africa, Coupa Software
What happens if we connect the whole South African entrepreneurial eco system?
Director, Rinku
Unlocking Funding Pathways for SMMEs
Access to finance remains one of the biggest hurdles for small businesses. This session explores practical funding options, innovative models, and expert insights to help SMMEs navigate the financial landscape. Attendees will gain clarity on opportunities and strategies to secure the support needed for sustainable growth.
Founder & COO, KAI Connect
Chief Executive Officer, Finfind
Co-Founder and Director, Mustard Finance Group
Chief Risk Officer, National Empowerment Fund
Investment Analyst, SEDFA Gauteng South
Senior ED Specialist, Absa
Lunch Break
Meet the Helpdesk
This interactive session gives SMMEs the chance to connect directly with the consultants behind the Helpdesk. Each specialist will introduce themselves, share their areas of expertise, and explain how they can support your business journey.
Founder, Small Business Helpdesk
Senior Partner & Strategist, Hot Mustard
Founder & Chief Solutionist, Shluvah
CEO & Chief Win Strategist, nFold
Social Lead: Risk & Compliance Manager, Xerus Consulting
Business Strategist, Story Advantage Marketing Agency
Managing Director, Ndzumo Consulting
Executive Coach & Wellness Counsellor, EverJOURNEY Coaching & Wellness
Panel Discussion: Positioning Yourself as a Strategic Partner to Clients
Procurement leaders from diverse industries share how suppliers can move beyond transactional relationships to become trusted, strategic partners. This discussion highlights practical approaches, industry insights, and the mindset shifts needed to build long‑term, value‑driven client partnerships.
CEO / Procurement Expert, ROI Group
Executive: IT and Professional Business Services (PBS) Sourcing, Telkom
Group Supplier Development Manager, Sun International
Senior Manager: Strategic Sourcing, African Bank
Supplier MatchUp Sessions
Treasure Hunt/Networking
Cocktail
